Major SNAP Benefit Update Coming Next Month — How It Affects Thousands

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is undergoing one of its most significant transformations in recent years. As we approach next month, thousands of households across the United States are bracing for shifts that will fundamentally change how they access and use their food assistance. These updates aren’t just minor administrative tweaks; they represent a major shift in federal and state policy, ranging from stricter work requirements to specific bans on what you can place in your grocery cart. For many, these changes will require immediate lifestyle adjustments to avoid a sudden loss of essential support.

Expanded Work Requirements for Older Adults

One of the most impactful changes taking effect involves the expansion of mandatory work rules. Previously, able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) aged 18 to 54 were required to work or participate in a training program to receive benefits for more than three months. However, under the latest federal guidelines, this age bracket has been extended. Now, individuals up to age 64 must prove they are working, volunteering, or enrolled in an approved job-training program for at least 80 hours per month. This “cliff” means that thousands of older adults who were previously exempt may see their benefits suspended next month if they cannot provide documentation of their employment status.

State-Specific “Junk Food” Restrictions

In a move tied to the “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, several states are officially implementing restrictions on SNAP-eligible items starting next month. The goal is to steer beneficiaries toward more nutritious options, but the practical effect is a ban on certain convenience items. In states like Colorado and Texas, certain soft drinks, candies, and highly processed snacks will no longer be purchasable with an EBT card. Checkout systems are being updated to automatically decline these products. While the rest of your grocery bill will still be covered, you may find that items you have relied on for years are suddenly off-limits.

SNAP Benefit Limits and Deductions for 2026

To help you navigate the financial side of these updates, the table below outlines the current maximum monthly allotments based on household size. These figures include the latest cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) designed to help families keep up with inflation.

New Deductions for Home Internet and Utilities

There is a silver lining in the new updates for those struggling with rising bills. Recognizing that the internet is now a basic necessity for job hunting and education, the USDA has updated its utility allowance rules. Recipients can now include the cost of home internet as a deductible utility expense when calculating their net income. This change is crucial because a higher deduction leads to a lower “countable” income, which can actually increase the total amount of SNAP benefits a household receives each month. If you haven’t updated your case file with your latest internet and utility bills, doing so next month could result in a boost to your EBT balance.

Narrowing of Caregiver Exemptions

The definition of who qualifies as a “caregiver” is also tightening. Previously, many parents or guardians of teenagers were exempt from work requirements. Under the updated rules, the age threshold for a dependent child that grants a parent an exemption has been lowered to 14. This means parents of children aged 15 to 17 are now subject to the same 80-hour-per-month work or training requirements as other adults. This change is expected to affect thousands of families who may now have to balance new work mandates with their existing caregiving responsibilities.

The Impact on State Administrative Costs

Behind the scenes, the way SNAP is funded at the state level is shifting, which could lead to tighter eligibility screenings. Starting this year, states are being asked to shoulder a larger percentage of the administrative costs—the “overhead” of running the program. As the federal government reduces its share of these costs, some states may implement more frequent “redetermination” interviews or stricter documentation checks to ensure they are only paying out benefits to those who strictly meet every criteria. It is more important than ever to keep your contact information updated with your local Department of Social Services to ensure you don’t miss any critical notices.

How to Prepare for the Transition

Preparation is key to weathering these changes without losing access to food. If you fall into the 55–64 age group or have children over 14, start gathering your pay stubs or volunteer logs now. If you live in a state implementing food restrictions, take time to review the specific list of banned items to avoid frustration at the register. Most importantly, use your state’s online portal to report any changes in your housing or utility costs, as the new internet deduction could help offset some of the stress caused by other program cuts.

FAQs

Q1 Can I still buy soda and candy with my EBT card?

It depends on your state. While federal law allows these items, at least 18 states (including Texas, Florida, and Indiana) have started banning certain sugary drinks and candies starting in early 2026.

Q2 What happens if I can’t find a job to meet the work requirement?

If you are subject to work rules, you can also meet the 80-hour monthly requirement through volunteering or participating in state-approved job training programs (SNAP E&T).

Q3 Does my home internet bill really increase my food stamps?

Yes, by reporting your internet cost as a utility, you increase your deductions. This lowers your “net income” in the eyes of the USDA, which can lead to a higher monthly benefit amount.